Instructions

1. Activating the Yeast

   In a deep bowl, dissolve the yeast and sugar in half a cup of warm water, and set the mixture aside for five minutes until it activates and foam forms on the surface. · 5 min
2. Kneading the Ingredients

   Add the flour, salt, remaining water, and olive oil to the yeast mixture, and knead the ingredients by hand or with an electric stand mixer for 8 minutes until a smooth, elastic dough forms. · 8 min
3. Proofing the Dough

   Grease a bowl with a little olive oil, place the dough inside, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rest in a warm place for 30 minutes until it doubles in size. · 30 min
4. Shaping the Dough

   Preheat the oven to the highest possible temperature, and shape the dough by hand on a lightly floured surface into a uniform circle of medium thickness with slightly thicker edges.
5. Adding the Toppings

   Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the dough, then scatter the mozzarella cheese on top, and drizzle a few drops of olive oil around the crust edges.
6. Baking

   Bake the pizza on the bottom rack of the preheated oven for 10 to 12 minutes until the cheese is melted and the crust edges are golden brown and crispy. · 11 min
7. Serving

   Remove the pizza from the oven, garnish immediately with fresh basil leaves, then slice and serve hot.

Nutrition / serving

Chef's tips